Hey guys, I'm new here. Well, my husband and myself have done a lot of traveling over the years, but it's almost always been within Europe. We thought it would be a welcomed change to maybe check out the Caribbean this summer. We're looking for a quiet island with minimal resorts like Sandals. Relatively afforadable, nice beaches and a rainforest climate (something like Belize) would be greatly appreciated. Anyone have any ideas?

I haven't been there myself, but from my research into possible destinations for this summer, it sounds like Grenada may be to your liking.<BR>Also, I know it is not Caribbean, but you may enjoy Costa Rica. It seems to have all you are looking for (except that it is not an island).

Why not Belize, then? Rain forest, Mayan ruins, amazing diving and snorkeling, and the nicest, most warm-hearted and welcoming people I've encountered in the Caribbean region. The only drawback: the beaches aren't the greatest.<BR><BR>In the eastern Caribbean, I second the vote for Grenada. It's a bit of a challenge to get there (last time I went, I had a 16-hour travel day, but I took advantage of the 6-hour layover(s) in San Juan and left the airport to explore). ONce there, hotels run the gamut from basic/cheap to high end. Good beaches, high mountains, rain forest, waterfalls, crater lakes. Friendly islanders and lively local cuisine.

Check into Tobago, also. Very friendly small island, with a rainforest in the north center of the island that's been protected from development for centuries.<BR>It's not at all crowded, and it offers a variety of terrains -- from flattish in the south to mountainous in the north -- and a variety of beaches. Summer can get a little rainy, but generally not too bad -- an hour a day, usually. Although more can occasionally be expected.

St. Lucia is very lush and green, and although is does have a Sandals you would never have to look at it. Ladera is a great resort if you want to experience the great outdoors because it's way up on the hill with a fabulous view of the Pitons and all rooms are missing an entire wall (hope you like tree frogs). Down the road there's a Hilton Jalousie which is also really really nice.